What kind of yoga is right for me?

You can spend from 45 to 90 minutes each visit going to an array of yoga classes. The benefits of yoga are known and clear. Yoga builds core strength, increases flexibility, and can reduce stress, but is it enough for weight loss? That depends on which type of class you are taking. Yoga is available for all levels, and as you may have guessed, the higher-leveled classes burn more calories than beginner classes.

Traditionally, Hatha Yoga is beginner-friendly. In these classes you learn traditional postures and breathing techniques that you can use in more advanced classes. Classes usually last from 45 to 60 minutes and burn just under 200 calories per hour. 200 calories is the equivalent of jogging 2 miles which takes much less time.

More advanced Power Yoga classes last 30 to 45 minutes, which usually moves at a much faster pace, keeping your heart rate more elevated than the traditional methods of yoga. This means you’re able to burn off about 300 calories per hour, a much higher amount than the low intensity form of Hatha Yoga.

If you’re looking for real calorie burn during a yoga class and you can tolerate 105 degrees, try Bikram Yoga. These classes last from 75-90 minutes and burn about 630 calories per hour, over twice as much as Power Yoga. The classes explore the same 26 poses and can rapidly increase flexibility compared to other classes because of the high temperatures. Hydration is extremely important before, during, and after these classes because of the amount you sweat.

You may not burn as many calories during yoga classes, but take into consideration the benefits of learning breathing techniques that reduce stress and increase focus compared to sometimes monotonous cardio routines on a treadmill or elliptical machine. Fitting in one yoga workout per week can add balance to your fitness program and reduce the stresses of having a busy life.